Trolley Jack question

[john2k]

Just purchased my first halfords 3 tonne trolley jack. It came in the box with the valve open. So for me to lift it I had to turn the valve clockwise with the handle. My question is, seeing as it came with the valve open, is this the preferred storage method? after lifting a car then lowering it by turning the valve anti-clockwise, do I just leave the valve in the open position the jack can't be raised again until I close the valve?

Also, is there any risk to leaving the jack outdoors (not directly exposed to rain, cover it with something)

 

[Lower]

I always leave my valve in the closed position so that as and when i use the jack the next time, i know that the valve is fully closed and so that there is zero risk of any hydraulic fluid leaking out.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

I always leave my valve in the closed position so that as and when i use the jack the next time, i know that the valve is fully closed and so that there is zero risk of any hydraulic fluid leaking out.

I have several hydraulic jacks, including a full size garage jack. I always leave them, just as I finish using them, with the valve open and have never had a problem. I only store them, in the orientation they are used and would never store one regularly outdoors.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

I've always left them open.

 

[Stivino]

Open for me. Not for any specific reason, just that that’s how they will be when you are finished using them.

 

[Burnerman]

As above!
Always store the jack on it's wheels, don't hang it up!
John

 

[carmanmemoranda]

Open. So the piston cannot be extended and open to the air.

I wouldn't want to keep it outdoors either

 

[Avocet]

I don't think it makes any difference. I've left them open and close, for years, on various jacks, as the mood takes me.